For mountain hiking enthusiasts who visit the picturesque Szczawnica, there is a unique opportunity to gain two important points in the Crown of Polish Mountains (KGP). The Crown of Polish Mountains is an ambitious tourist project and a personal challenge, consisting in conquering the highest peaks of all 28 mountain ranges located within the borders of our country. Although this list includes mountains scattered throughout the country, there are two of them in the immediate vicinity of the Pieniny and Beskid Sądecki mountains, where Szczawnica is located: Radziejowa and HighThis is a perfect opportunity to combine relaxation at a spa with the satisfaction of conquering new peaks.
Radziejowa (1266 m above sea level) – Queen of the Sądecki Beskids
Radziejowa is the highest peak in the Sądecki Beskids, located north of Szczawnica. This hiking destination offers both a challenge and unforgettable views. Radziejowa Peak is forested, but the real attraction is wooden observation tower, from which there is a view beautiful panorama of the Tatra Mountains, Pieniny, Beskid Sądecki and GorceAccess to Radziejowa from Szczawnica is possible via several trails.
The best way to get from Szczawnica to Radziejowa is to reach the town Piwniczna-Zdrój or Rytro, where popular trails start. Alternatively, you can drive to the town Sycamores (near Szczawnica) and from there hike up to Przehyba (where the mountain shelter is located), from where the trail continues to Radziejowa. This is an ideal day trip for those who appreciate active leisure.
Wysoka (1050 m above sea level) – the Pearl of the Pieniny Proper
Wysoka (also known as Wysokie Skalki) is the highest peak in the Pieniny Mountains, and also one of the most characteristic and scenic. Situated on the Polish-Slovak border, it offers spectacular, panoramic views of the Pieniny Proper, the Little Pieniny, the Tatra Mountains, the Gorce Mountains, the Sądecki Beskids, and even the distant Beskid Niski and the Bieszczady MountainsThe summit of Wysoka is rocky, and the ascent, though short, requires some caution in the final stages due to the safety features of ladders and handrails, which adds an element of adventure to the expedition.
To get to Wysoka from Szczawnica, it is most convenient to drive to the town SycamoresIt's from here, in the Homole Gorge, that the most popular and picturesque trail to Wysoka leads. Alternatively, you can take the trail from Szczawnica to Durbaszka (where the mountain shelter is located) and from there to the summit. This is a shorter but equally rewarding hike, perfect for those seeking intense visual experiences.
Other KGP Summits in the Region
In addition to Radziejowa and Wysoka, relatively close to Szczawnica, there are other peaks worthy of attention for ambitious KGP climbers, though they require a longer journey. These include Turbacz (Gorce), Lubomir (Beskid Wyspowy), and Mogielica (Beskid Wyspowy). Each of them presents its own fascinating adventure.
Thanks to Szczawnica's convenient location, mountain enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to earn valuable points towards the Crown of Polish Mountains while admiring the extraordinary beauty of the Polish mountains. It's the perfect combination of active recreation and spa tourism. If you're planning to climb Wysoka or Radziejowa, we encourage you to take advantage of the following active hike: comfortable accommodation in Szczawnica in our Smile Hotel.
